In 2014 The European Commission published a handbook (“Handbook on addressing the issue of alleged marriages of convenience between EU citizens and non-EU nationals in the context of EU law on free movement of EU citizens”) to help EU member states take action against marriages of convenience between EU citizens and non-EU nationals in the context of EU law on the free movement of citizens.
Though the handbook is not legally binding, it provides guidance on how to distinguish between genuine marriages and marriages of convenience contracted for the sole purpose of enjoying the right of free movement and residence under Directive 2004/38/EC18
